Lamine Yamal reacts to Barcelona prodigy’s move to Saudi Arabia | OneFootball

Unai Hernandez has officially completed his transfer to Al-Ittihad, signing a three-year contract with the Saudi Arabian club.

The move had been in the works for several days, and the announcement was finally made through the club’s social media channels.

Hernandez’s contract with Barcelona ended on June 30. Initially, the plan was to renew his agreement with the Catalan side, but the offer from Al-Ittihad prompted a change in direction for both the player and the club.

Following the completion of his medical examination in Barcelona, Hernandez travelled to Jeddah, where he is set to join his new teammates under the guidance of coach Laurent Blanc.

The transfer fee agreed upon for the deal stands at €4.5 million, with the possibility of increasing to €5 million if certain easily achievable performance-related clauses are met.

Lamine Yamal’s reaction

Ramon Planes, who previously served as Barcelona’s technical secretary and is now the sporting director at Al-Ittihad, played a crucial role in facilitating this transfer.

Lamine Yamal reacts to Unai Hernandez’s move.

His familiarity with Hernandez and insight into the player’s potential made him instrumental in sealing the deal. Girona, a club with ties to the operation, is also set to benefit financially from the transaction.

As Hernandez departs for his new chapter in Saudi Arabia, the move has not gone unnoticed by his former Barcelona colleagues.

Lamine Yamal took to social media to share a heartfelt message for his former youth teammate. Yamal’s gesture highlighted the bond between the two players, even as their professional paths diverge.

A long-term contract

Hernandez’s contract with Al-Ittihad includes three guaranteed seasons, with an option for an additional two.

The move represents a significant step in his career, offering him the opportunity to gain experience in a competitive and growing league.

Barcelona’s decision to let him go, despite initial renewal plans, underscores the impact of Al-Ittihad’s lucrative offer.

As Hernandez settles into life in Jeddah, all eyes will be on how he adapts to his new environment and contributes to the success of his team.

The transfer marks yet another example of how the Saudi Pro League is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for promising football talent.